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The Kenai Watershed Forum's (KWF) first ever Black Tie CHAIRity Ball was held on October 10th and was a huge success according to KWF project coordinator Josselyn O'Connor. "It was such a special evening because a diverse group of supporters came out to have fun and celebrate the kick-off of KWF's capital building campaign. And there was certainly no shortage of fun," said O'Connor. "Many locals dusted off their dancing shoes and pulled out their black ties from the back of their closets, or rented one for this event. The ladies donned their best formal attire that sparkled through the night. The evening was full of laughter, delicious food, and lots of dancing," added Josselyn.

The Ball, held at Hutchings Showroom, was a fundraising event for KWF's newest project, the remodeling of their new location which will be located at Soldotna Creek Park just behind the Hutchings facility. "KWF recently entered into a 30-year lease with the City of Soldotna to occupy a historic building located within Soldotna at the confluence of Soldotna Creek and the Kenai River. The building, a 2,300-square-foot house, is one of the first permanent structures built in Soldotna and has a unique history tied to the area homesteaders," explained O'Connor. "Originally the house was built in 1955 and is in need of major renovation in order to meet the growing needs of KWF. Once complete, it will provide sufficient office space for the staff and board, a laboratory for research projects, the latest technology to enhance productivity, and the perfect location to expand the KWF educational programs. In addition to providing the needed space and tools, our new building will also afford us the opportunity to expand our current services to the residents and visitors of the Kenai Peninsula," said O'Connor.

As guests arrived at Hutchings Showroom, they were greeted with white-glove service and the ladies in attendance were presented with a rose as their cars were moved by the onsite parking valets. Photo ops were available for all who wished to preserve the memory of the formal occasion as well. "Just in case someone wants to see me in a tuxedo again before my funeral," joked one attendee. Even KWF executive director, Robert Ruffner, was dressed for the Red Carpet. The highlight of the evening was when Soldotna Mayor Peter Micciche presented Ruffner with a $25,000 check from ConocoPhillips for the renovation fund. Borough Mayor David Carey was also on hand, and congratulated the KWF on the many projects they have partnered on the Peninsula to enhance and sustain our quality of life.

From ice sculptures to delicious beverages, the party went on till the wee hours of the evening. The only time the dance floor was cleared was when door prizes were being drawn. "Who knew there were so many dancers on the Kenai Peninsula? Folks truly enjoyed themselves," said O'Connor. "A huge thanks goes out to Betty Obendorf and Rosie Reeder for working with the Kenai Watershed Forum to bring such an over-the-top and special event to Soldotna and the Kenai Peninsula. And many thanks to the folks who supported us by buying tickets and contributed to the special Chair-themed door prizes," added O'Connor. To learn more about the Kenai Watershed Forum or KWF's Capital Building Campaign, contact Josselyn O'Connor at call at 260-5449, or stop by their present offices in the Blazy Mall in Soldotna.